Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, Jan 14: Minister for Forests, Mian Altaf Ahmad today asked the Gujjar and Bakerwal community to struggle for their legitimate rights by projecting their problems and developmental needs in right perspective at proper forums.
Addressing a largely attended Gujjar and Bakerwal Conference here today, Mian Altaf said that the Government was abreast with the problems of Gujjar and Bakerwal community has taken various measures to improve their economic condition, particularly those living in inaccessible areas, including nomads.
He said that provision for basic amenities to all, particularly those living in far flung and hilly areas, was the priority of the Government, adding that to this end a massive development plan has been formulated to improve and create such facilities across the State.
Besides a number of Gujjar and Bakerwal leaders, the Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, P. L. Pole, Chief Conservator of Forests, R.K. Kaisar and senior officers of PHE, Social Welfare, R&B, were also present on the occasion.
The Minister said that instructions have already been issued to the districts administration to reach out the people and address their grievances. He said the plans formulated by the Government would definitely benefit all the sections of the society living in urban, rural and hilly areas.
Responding to the demands raised by the speakers, the Minister assured that their genuine demands would be met in a phased manner. He said attention was being paid to ensure provision of drinking water, electricity, education, roads and health care facilities to the people.
Regarding establishment of mobile dispensaries and mobile schools for the Gujjar and Bakerwals, the Minister assured them that the matter would be taken up with the Chief Minister. He directed Deputy Commissioner to take necessary steps for ensuring provision of electricity to the un-electrified Gujjar and Bakerwal basties. He also asked Deputy Commissioner to settle all land case lying for vesting of ownerships rights under Roshni Act, apart from settlement issue of Ladadhar village.
The Minister said that matter regarding due share in employment under Schedule Tribe category would also be taken up with the Chief Minister
Mian Altaf said that Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah always advocated for upliftment of poor section of the society including Gujjar and Bakerwal communities and want that every community and area shall get equal opportunity for development.
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